Intentional Life

David S. Anderson, Ph.D., is Professor Emeritus of Education and Human Development at George Mason University. He is a lifelong educator who has dedicated his life to the positive development of young adults, including health promotion and wellness, drug and alcohol misuse prevention, and engaged strategic planning and accountability. He remains active with research, writing, and consulting and has served in community leadership roles in Celebration, Florida.

• Preface ix Chapter 1 Introduction 1Background 4 The Framework 7 Contributors 9 Using This Book 10 In Summary 12 Chapter 2 Optimism: Setting the Stage 13The Context of Optimism 14 The Role of Optimism 14 Optimism and Planned Change 15 Linkage With Other Thematic Areas 15 Conclusion 16 Chapter 3 Values: Anchoring Your Life 73Understanding Values 74 The Role of Values 75 Linkage With Other Thematic Areas 77 Conclusion 78 Chapter 4 Self-Care: Skills and Tools 145Self-Care Within a Wellness Construct 146 Self-Care as a Lifelong Feature 146 Linkage With Other Thematic Areas 147 Conclusion 148 Chapter 5 Relationships: Bonding 203What Is a Relationship? 204 Enhancing the Quality of a Relationship 204 Linkage With Other Thematic Areas 206 Conclusion 207 Chapter 6 Community: Connections 280What Is a Community? 280 What Is a Healthy Community? 282 Linkage With Other Thematic Areas 284 Conclusion 284 Chapter 7 Nature: Nurturing Yourself 338Why Attention to the Natural World? 338 Nature’s Applications to Individuals 339 Linkage With Other Thematic Areas 340 Conclusion 341 Chapter 8 Service: Giving Back 372Understanding Service Activities and Efforts 372 Service Benefits for the Individual 373 Linkage With Other Thematic Areas 374 Conclusion 375 Chapter 9 Conclusion: Reflection, Review and Action 418 Appendix 429 About the Author 433 About the Cover Art Illustrator 434 Index 435

“Daily doses of wisdom! The Intentional Life provides 365 unique perspectives on living with purpose and intention. A truly inspiring and transformative read!”-Dr. Miriam Delphin-Rittmon, Former Assistant Secretary of the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, USA“At a time when our country is grappling with ongoing concerns about anxiety and stress, social isolation, and overall well-being of our youngest generation, this book The Intentional Life – rich with the first-hand narratives of those sharing generously of their lived experiences – will help young adults grapple with the issues key to their spiritual, emotional and social wellness. As a higher education profession, waiting until students get to college to explore these questions of pathway and purpose often seems too late – this book will help engage students in a more timely manner.”-Luoluo Hong, PhD, MPH, Vice President for Student Engagement & Well-Being, Georgia Institute of Technology, USA